Description
Delicious and crispy baked broccoli cheese balls made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties or a nutritious snack, baked to golden perfection for a crispy outside and cheesy inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli Cheese Balls
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Blanch broccoli: Briefly blanch the chopped broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes to soften, then drain and allow to cool before finely chopping further if needed.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form balls: Shape the mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the broccoli cheese balls turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray before baking.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs for more flavor or add extra herbs such as parsley or paprika to the mixture.
- These can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
